Low Income Telephone Assistance Available
Two programs have been made available to help low-income households obtain affordable telephone service.
“Link-Up” helps qualified low-income Iowans obtain telephone service by providing reduced connection charges for basic phone service. Under the Link-Up program, low-income households can also have their telephone connection fees deferred at no interest. The “Lifeline” program assists qualified low-income Iowans by reducing their monthly telephone bills. Reductions vary according to telephone provide, and can be as high as $10 per month.
Neither of these programs cover any of the cost of purchasing a telephone or the wiring inside a home.
The programs are sponsored by the Iowa Telecommunications Association, Iowa Utilities Board, Rural Iowa Independent Telephone Association, and local telephone companies. Those who wish to apply for assistance under either program can do so by contacting their local telephone company. An informational brochure and application forms are available at the Delaware County Extension office at
